but it would not be the same as that which I should have made, and the
description of which contented you. Cola di Rienzi has proposed a Code
of Law that shall be our shield. Who should see that the shield become
what he proposes, but Cola di Rienzi? Romans! I suggest that Cola di
Rienzi be intrusted by the people with the authority, by whatsoever name
he pleases, of carrying the New Constitution into effect;--and whatever
be the means, we, the People, will bear him harmless."

"Long life to Rienzi!--long live Cecco del Vecchio! He hath spoken
well!--none but the Law-maker shall be the Governor!"

Such were the acclamations which greeted the ambitious heart of the
Scholar. The voice of the people invested him with the supreme power. He
had created a Commonwealth--to become, if he desired it, a Despot!

Chapter 2.VII. Looking after the Halter when the Mare is Stolen.

While such were the events at Rome, a servitor of Stephen Colonna was
already on his way to Corneto. The astonishment with which the old Baron
received the intelligence may be easily imagined. He lost not a moment
in convening his troop; and, while in all the bustle of departure, the
Knight of St. John abruptly entered his presence. His mien had lost its
usual frank composure.

"How is this?" said he, hastily; "a revolt?--Rienzi sovereign of
Rome?--can the news be believed?"

"It is too true!" said Colonna, with a bitter smile. "Where shall we
hang him on our return?"

"Talk not so wildly, Sir Baron," replied Montreal, discourteously;
"Rienzi is stronger than you think for. I know what men are, and you
only know what noblemen are! Where is your kinsman, Adrian?"

"He is here, noble Montreal," said Stephen, shrugging his shoulders,
with a half-disdainful smile at the rebuke, which he thought it more
prudent not to resent; "he is here!--see him enter!"

"You have heard the news?" exclaimed Montreal.

"I have."

"And despise the revolution?"

"I fear it!"

"Then you have some sense in you. But this is none of my affair: I
will not interrupt your consultations. Adieu for the present!" and, ere
Stephen could prevent him, the Knight had quitted the chamber.

"What means this demagogue?" Montreal muttered to himself. "Would he
trick me?--has he got rid of my presence in order to monopolise all the
profit of the enterprise? I fear me so!--the cunning Roman! We northern
warriors could never compete with the intellect of these Italians but
for